New Empire Theatre, Southend-on-Sea

Information on the New Empire Theatre, located just off Southend’s main High Street, in Alexandra Road. This page includes a brief history and some photos.

The New Empire Theatre closed in November 2008.
We have no information on future plans for this theatre

Until 2008, the New Empire was a self-funded theatre that was run by volunteers, and was available to local theatrical groups and performers.

Current Status

The New Empire Theatre closed in November 2008, after the tenants operating New Empire Theatre were unable to pay the rent, and the building’s owners, Shea Properties, regained possession and shut the theatre.

The building remains closed and is on sale via commercial property agents Ayers and Cruiks

Photo of the New Empire Theatre, taken November 2011

New Empire Theatre Close-up – Taken November 2011

New Empire Theatre Rear View, taken November 2011

History

The original Empire Theatre was first opened in 1871. The building was converted to the Rivoli Picture House in the early 1920s, and from 1962 to 1998, it was the home of the ABC Cinema (briefly known as the Cannon in the 1980s).

After its closure as a cinema in 1998, the building was painstakingly converted back to a theatre, and used for local community shows and events, until its eventual closure in 2008.

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